The Woody Creek Community Center will hold an opening reception for a new exhibition by artist Elizabeth Riecks today from 5 to 7 p.m., marking the beginning of her month-long exhibit at the WC3.

Riecks is a self-taught visual artist who specializes in photo-realism. She grew up in Colorado and has been in the Roaring Fork Valley since 2012.

At last years' Valley Visual Arts Show in Carbondale, her piece 'Vision' was voted second place for the People's Choice Award. She also has exhibited at Mountain Fair, the Redstone Art Festival and the Aspen Chapel Gallery.

She begins her process by referencing photographs. Through hand-eye precision she transposes the images onto canvas. She utilizes various materials, including paint, but really enjoys graphite, colored pencil, and charcoal. Through photorealism, Riecks seeks to examine a deeper reality and more honest interpretation of her subjects. By creating an illusion that her images are "real," she can unveil an even more dynamic, beautiful and profound truth of each character.

"I am especially excited to be at the Woody Creek Community Center this fall because I know that the WC3 patrons not only have a unique artistic culture and appreciation of modern art but also have a profound connection to nature," Riecks said in a statement. "This season, I am debuting some wildlife paintings, which is new and exciting for me."

WC3's monthly local shows aim to support the arts and promote artists in the valley. Past artists include Betty Weiss, Mike Otte, Missy Prudden, Rachel Fulfer, Michael McConnell and Nicole Nagel Gogolak. Each year WC3 also collaborates with the Aspen Community School to put on a "Square One" art exhibit, which features pieces from each child at the school.

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The show runs through Oct. 31. Art will be viewable during WC3 operating café hours and during events. More information at http://www.woodyc3.org.